By THE BAKERSFIELD CALIFORNIAN

Bakersfield planners are keeping pace with the recovering economy with retail projects set for approval.

The city Planning Commission on Thursday will consider approving site plans for two commercial developments: one at the southwest corner of Calloway and Olive drives and the other at 4915 Ming Ave., between Sports Authority and Golden Corral restaurant.

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Bakersfield Planning Commission

5:30 p.m. Thursday

City Council chambers, 1501 Truxtun Ave.

The first, Riverlakes Galleria, is a 22.5-acre neighborhood shopping center on the books since at least 2007. But the faltering economy stalled the project, resulting in the site plan's expiration. A new plan has been drawn up with a few minor adjustments and could include a grocery store and other unspecified retailers, said Planning Director Jim Eggert.

"It'll probably be really similar in mix like you see at Stockdale (Highway) and Coffee (Road)," he said, referring to the Town and Country Village shopping center, whose anchors include a CVS/pharmacy, Albertsons and Trader Joe's. "That caters to the surrounding neighborhood."

Specifics on potential retailers were not available, but the Planning Department recommends approval. That means grading at the site could begin soon.

On Ming Avenue, plans are in place to build a facility for Oregon-based tire chain Les Schwab Tire Centers, which has more than 400 stores in the western U.S., including locations in Clovis, Dinuba and Fresno.

And food newcomer Freddy's Frozen Custard & Steakburgers, a Kansas-based chain that recently took up residence at 2649 Calloway Drive and has achieved immediate success, is ready to open a second restaurant here. It will be Freddy's third in California.

Both would occupy a five-acre lot on the south side of Ming between Sports Authority and Golden Corral. Planners recommend approval.

The site's developer is Ming & Wible Center LLC of Los Angeles. Tripod Ventures-Ming, Valencia, is the local representative.

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